Happy Father’s Day to all you dads out there. Father’s day doesn’t get the hype that Mother’s day does, but I am okay with that. Here are a couple thoughts about Father’s day.

First it makes me think of my heavenly Father. How blessed and fortunate I am to read God’s word and get insight into God’s life. He is the standard. He sets the bar. No one has sacrifice more than he did. To watch his own son, Jesus, suffer and die on my behalf is beyond my understanding. Today, I am thankful for my heavenly Father.

Second, I think of my Dad. As my brother Buddy likes to call him…”the Chuckster.” It wasn’t that many months ago, where I wasn’t sure that Dad would be around for Father’s day. It makes you think. God had other plans and for that I will be eternally grateful. The time I have spent with my Dad this year has been the best of my life. God is reinventing him at age 69. Most guys that age would coast, but not my pops. He is still looking for ways to invest in others and eternity. He is inspired to be a better husband at this stage of his life. At a season of life where most would say “I am what I am…take it or leave it,” Dad is on his face before God and trying his best to be more like Jesus. I am dreaming that God will relocate my parents to our area and Dad could serve part-time as our pastor of Seniors. He would be awesome! Happy Father’s Day, Pops. This post is dedicated to you and the impact you have made on me. Thanks for teaching me how to be a man - I really do want to be like you when I grow up!

Thirdly, I think of my beautiful kids - Alli, Emmy, B, Drew, and GG. Unbelievable. What would my life be without them? They keep things exciting and interesting. They are far from perfect but I would not trade them for anything in the world. They know how to love and they sure know how to fight! How could five kids be so different yet have so much in common. They are all learning to love Jesus. They love Fellowship and our life here. I am humbled that God has called me to pour into the lives of such and incredible group. I have no doubt that they will all have a greater kingdom impact than I ever will. Individually and collectively. God changed the world with 12 followers…I wonder what he will do with the Cremeans 5? I am praying for big things. I am praying for their spouses today…wherever they are and whoever they are. God, may they fall in love with Jesus now!

Finally, I am thinking of you. Some of you reading this today have the great privilege of being a Dad. Don’t hold back - give it everything you have. Remember your kids will remember more about how you loved them than how hard you worked. They really aren’t all that impressed with our jobs or our portfolios. Love them with all you have guys. Don’t get complacent or withdrawal because it’s complicated or you don’t know what to do. Lead them in following Jesus. Lead them in serving…in connecting…in giving. Teach them now so they will have those foundations for life.

For some, this will be a difficult day. This might be your first Father’s day without your dad or one of your children. I’m sorry. I can’t imagine what you are feeling today. Some of you are still grieving the relationship you have or had with your father. He just never got it. I hate that for you. Some dads might have a wayward son or daughter and you won’t get that phone call today that says, “I love you dad.” Don’t give up hope…don’t stop praying. God is still in the business of changing lives and bringing wayward sons and daughters home.

For all of you I pray that this will be a meaningful day. A day where you will find the time to give thanks and honor. God loves it when we give thanks and honor those around us. Happy Fathers Day.